The Midas Monument, also known as Yazılıkaya (Inscribed Rock), is a monumental rock-cut facade dating back to the 6th century BC, a testament to the ancient Phrygian civilization. This 17-meter-high structure, dedicated to the goddess Cybele, is the most impressive archaeological remnant in the region. Its terra cotta facade features intricate geometrical patterns and inscriptions, offering a glimpse into a powerful ancient culture.
Visitors consistently describe the monument itself as 'impressive' and 'majestic,' with many noting its excellent state of preservation. Beyond the main facade, the site encompasses a larger ancient city with altars, an incomplete monument, a ritual road, cisterns, and fascinating cave dwellings like the Kırkgöz Cave. Reviewers frequently highlight the opportunity for extensive exploration, suggesting that those who only view the main monument miss out on much of the site's rich offerings. The surrounding natural beauty and the sense of having the ancient city to oneself, especially during off-peak times, are also frequently praised.
To fully appreciate the site, visitors recommend planning at least three hours for a complete exploration, with some suggesting up to several hours. Good hiking shoes are essential, as there are walking trails around the complex, including a path that goes around the back of the main monument and offers lovely views from the top. While the main highlights are marked, many smaller details can be discovered by those willing to explore. Bringing water and snacks is advisable, as amenities within the immediate site are limited. October is mentioned as a good time to visit, offering pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
The Midas Monument is located about 90 kilometers from Eskisehir and requires a car to reach. Reviewers note that the drive from Eskisehir is beautiful, easy, and traffic-free, with good road conditions. From Afyonkarahisar, it's about a 20-kilometer detour, which visitors deem 'completely justified.' Parking is available at the center of the village, next to a traditional café, from where it's a 10-minute walk up the hill to the monument and trails. Brown signs help guide the way. While public transport options are not mentioned in reviews, hiring a car or arranging a tour with a driver is the recommended approach.
A common complaint is the lack of extensive infrastructure or detailed descriptions for all the smaller ruins, which can make navigating the broader site challenging for some. To mitigate this, consider researching the site beforehand or hiring a local guide if available, though English-speaking guides might be rare. Some visitors also found the overall management of the site to be 'absurd,' implying a lack of clear organization or information beyond the main monument.